The massive contribution by the Windrush generation to British society has been celebrated in Ipswich.

East Anglian Daily Times: Albert Grant, 84, who came to the UK in 1955 Picture: MARIAM GHAEMIAlbert Grant, 84, who came to the UK in 1955 Picture: MARIAM GHAEMI (Image: Archant)

This year marks the 70th anniversary of Windrush - a reference to the ship that arrived at Tilbury Docks in 1948 bringing workers from the Caribbean.

A special event, organised by Ipswich’s Windrush Select Committee, was held at Bourne Vale Social Club today to celebrate the achievements of those who made the voyage and their descendents.

Live music, food and drink stalls and a ‘time tunnel’ exhibition with archive material were enjoyed by visitors.

Former Ipswich mayor Albert Grant OBE, 84, who travelled over from Barbados in 1955, said it was so important to celebrate Windrush.

East Anglian Daily Times: Chairman of the Windrush Select Committee Keiran Manners with Ivy Scott (left) and Margaret Walcott (right) Picture: MARIAM GHAEMIChairman of the Windrush Select Committee Keiran Manners with Ivy Scott (left) and Margaret Walcott (right) Picture: MARIAM GHAEMI (Image: Archant)

“I did a lot of hard work for the black community in Ipswich as a whole. When we first came here it was terrible. You could get a job, but we had nowhere to live.”

East Anglian Daily Times: The 'time tunnel' exhibition at Bourne Vale Social Club Picture: MARIAM GHAEMIThe 'time tunnel' exhibition at Bourne Vale Social Club Picture: MARIAM GHAEMI (Image: Archant)